Overview

• The DVLA requires drivers to disclose medical conditions or medicines that impair driving ability, with penalties up to £1,000 and possible licence revocation for failing to report.
• Medicines highlighted include opioid painkillers, tranquillisers and certain antidepressants, as well as any drugs that cause drowsiness or carry a ‘do not operate heavy machinery’ warning.
• NHS advice notes some antidepressants can cause dizziness, drowsiness and blurred vision, particularly when starting treatment, and people with these symptoms should not drive.
• Drivers unsure about fitness to drive should seek medical advice, complete the DVLA’s M1 questionnaire, and may be asked for GP or consultant reports or to take medical and driving assessments.
• Most applicants can continue driving during DVLA review, though referrals can extend processing times and different rules apply to bus and lorry licences; the DVLA says depression is reportable only if it affects safe driving.